When you list its assets, Guatemala seems to be one of the best travel destinations in Central America: the stunning Maya ruins at Tikal, the well-preserved colonial city of Antigua, a vibrant indigenous culture, active volcanoes, highland lakes, exotic wildlife.

Honduras offers an array of different vacation experiences - perhaps more than any other country in Central America. It can be a resort-oriented getaway for divers and snorkelers (in the Bay Islands), a showplace of Mayan archaeological treasures (at Copan), or an eco- and adventure-travel playground (on the north coast and in the rain forest).

Belize has become a rising star among those seeking active and educational vacations. They go to see its vast expanses of rain forest, rich collection of birds and animals, long stretch of coral reef and plentiful Maya ruins. And despite a weak international travel market, tourism has replaced agriculture as the largest industry in Belize, generating almost one-fifth of the country's GDP.